Advances in Community NeuroRehabilitation

Dear Colleagues,

Community neurorehabilitation (CNR) provides specialized neurological rehabilitation for individuals living in their own homes, as opposed to inpatient settings, and aims to improve functional ability and quality of life through a multidimensional approach while the individual is living in a home environment. This approach can include early discharge from inpatient care, rehabilitation for those who do not need intensive hospitalization, and periodic maintenance therapy for chronic conditions.

The topic of CNR is so far little developed, the number of reports in scientific journals is small. In the 21st century, community neurorehabilitation has emerged as a promising extension of neurological rehabilitation and, because of its multidisciplinary focus, many variations of CNR teams have been implemented. Critical gaps exist, however, in understanding of the influence on recovery of structural and procedural differences among programs, as well as patient-level variables such as social support.

Key aspects of community neurorehabilitation are as follows:

1. Focus on function.

The primary goal is to maximize an individual’s functional abilities and improve their quality of life.

2. Home-based approach.

Rehabilitation takes place in the individual's home, allowing for a more natural and comfortable setting.

3. Multidimensional rehabilitation.

This can involve physical, cognitive, and emotional support.

4. Individualized care.

Rehabilitation programs are tailored to each person’s specific needs and goals.

5. Team approach.

Community neurorehabilitation often involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, neuropsychologists, and speech therapists.

6. Holistic approach.

Holistic rehabilitation approaches are transforming the landscape of recovery by providing comprehensive, individualized care that nurtures the whole person. This integrated model not only supports physical and mental health but also fosters emotional resilience and spiritual well-being.

7. Long-term support.

The focus is on long-term management and ongoing support for individuals with neurological conditions.

Who can benefit from community neurorehabilitation?

Individuals with a variety of neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), spinal cord injuries (SCIs), and acquired brain injuries; people who have suffered brain trauma or injury and need guidance to return to their everyday lives; individuals who have been discharged from inpatient rehabilitation but still need ongoing therapy; and those with chronic, progressive neurological conditions who do not require hospitalization.

We will welcome brief reports, original research reports, or review articles on CNR.

Prof. Dr. Józef Opara
Guest Editor

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• community neurorehabilitation
• stroke
• multiple sclerosis (MS)
• traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Parkinson’s disease (PD)
• spinal cord injury (SCI)
• architectural barriers
• barriers that hinder physical activity
• early home-supported discharge (EHSD)
• tele-rehabilitation
• neuromodulation devices suitable for use at home